BRIEFING:Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, who it benefits, why it matters, proposed cuts and why we must strengthen current law

Friday, May 18, 2018

2pm-3pm

Rayburn 2168 (Gold Room)

Dear Colleague,

Please join us for a briefing and discussion to learn more about the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, who it benefits, why it matters and why we should work to strengthen current law. We will take a deeper look into proposed cuts which would weaken
the program that has shielded millions of seniors and families from living in poverty.

Every day thousands of Americans turn 65 and the challenges that come with aging make it extremely difficult for seniors to afford very basic needs, such as food and secure housing. Over time (SSI) has provided a very basic income to older adults struggling
to make ends-meet and has become an increasingly important program for children and persons with disabilities. SSI is truly a provider of last resort and is vital for those that depend on it, yet many provisions of the law have not been updated since it was
originally signed by President Nixon in 1972. Come learn about how proposed cuts could devastate already vulnerable populations, including children with disabilities, and why I have introduced the Supplemental Security Income Restoration Act of 2017 – a bill
that would modernize and improve SSI by expanding resources and income limits, eliminating punitive reductions in benefits, and updating financial eligibility rules.